The Club will hold a special pre-season friendly event at the stadium on Sunday August 4th: a charity match between our new Team Manager Simon Hollyhead’s Hollyhead’s Stars (managed by Simon and his coaches) versus Community Casuals (managed by our community coaches).

Both managers are looking for team members and anyone is welcome to apply! Kick-off is at 13:00. Gates open at 11.00.

Beneficiaries from this charity fixture will be The Friends of Redlands, and The Epilepsy Society, who will have an equal share of the proceeds from the day.

Here’s how we’re going to raise funds – and how you can take part:

• By playing in one of the teams. Places are limited to 20 players per team. £10.00 per player. There will be rolling subs, so everyone should get a chance to play on Banbury United’s beautiful pitch, even if you think you can only manage ten minutes! This is open to allcomers – male or female. But get in quick, as there are only 40 places. Apply for your place by contacting Ryan Jones at: communitycoach@banburyunitedfc.co.uk.

• By donating in our collection buckets on the gate, in the Clubhouse, and in the Club shop – which will be open to sell the Club’s new kit and other merchandise.

• By enjoying a drink at our Clubhouse bar: we will be donating 10 per cent of the bar’s proceeds towards the day’s fundraising.

Puritans Radio’s Dave England will be providing commentary, and Richard Hamilton will provide stadium announcements. Just like the Banbury United squad, we thought they’d appreciate warming up for the new season! We hope that members of our new first-team squad will be available on the day, to meet you for a chat and a photograph.

There will be activities for children, including a bouncy castle and face-painting.

It's a great way to start the season off, having four hours together as a community, giving something back, and creating a fun event for our town as a “thank you” for your loyal support, especially as we start our new campaign. And if you have yet to experience the hospitality at Banbury United, why not use this special charity event to come and see what it’s all about at your local club?

To sign up for a team, e-mail Ryan Jones at communitycoach@banburyunitedfc.co.uk before Friday 26 July.